ITAA responds to Aer Lingus threat of strike

Dublin, 20^th May 2014 The Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA) are calling on all parties involved in the proposed Aer Lingus strike, Friday May 30^th, to begin the process of communicating in order to reach a resolution.

Pat Dawson, CEO of the ITAA said, “We ask that IMPACT and Aer Lingus management enter negotiations immediately in an attempt to prevent the proposed strike action. If it goes ahead as planned, this strike action will affect 40,000 customers causing undue worry and stress on one of the busiest travel weekends of the year”

He continued, “Our agents are already reporting a drop in bookings and a steep rise in prices for the June bank holiday weekend due to a lack of adequate alternative options for would-be travellers. It is paramount that lines of dialogue be opened between Aer Lingus staff, Aer Lingus management and the union representatives from IMPACT before the situation deteriorates any further”.

The ITAA has revealed that the cheapest flight option from Dublin – London Gatwick with Ryanair on Friday 30^th May is currently €238.99. In comparison, flights the following Friday 6^th June are just €53.99. Whilst this rise can be attributed in part, to the bank holiday, it is undoubtedly also due to the proposed strike action a lack of availability on Friday 30^th May.

The ITAA represents Ireland’s travel Industry, bringing together 100 member companies covering 161 outlets in different towns and cities throughout the Republic of Ireland. ITAA members are licensed by the Commission for Aviation Regulation and are fully bonded providing full financial protection for their customers.

ENDS